What is the component known for being cooled by fins in a vehicle?

The component known for being cooled by fins in a vehicle is the disc brake rotor. The design of a disc brake rotor often incorporates fins or vents that allow for better airflow and heat dissipation. When brakes are applied, the friction generated between the brake pads and the rotor produces significant heat. If this heat is not managed effectively, it can lead to brake fade, where the braking performance diminishes due to overheating.

The presence of fins helps to increase the surface area of the rotor and enhances airflow, which aids in cooling. This is essential for maintaining optimal braking performance under various driving conditions, especially during prolonged use, such as in performance driving or when descending steep hills.

In contrast, components like the brake caliper, wheel hub, and brake pad do not utilize fins for cooling. The brake caliper houses the brake pads and is involved in the braking mechanism, while the wheel hub is mainly responsible for housing the wheel bearings. The brake pad works in conjunction with the rotor but does not feature fins and does not dissipate heat in the same manner as the rotor, instead relying on contact with the rotor for braking force.